Accuracy of modified CAD/CAM generated wafer for orthognathic surgery

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate an accuracy of modified CAD/CAM generated wafers for orthognathic surgery. A total of 20 patients who had undergone bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were included and divided into two groups: A conventional CAD/CAM generated intermediate wafer and a modified CAD/CAM generated intermediate wafer. A series of CT images were taken to compare the virtual simulations with the actual postoperative outcomes(1 month after surgery). In conventional group, the mean difference of maxillary position between virtual simulation models and postoperative results was 0.78mm and overall average error within 1mm was observed in 66.4% of the repositioned maxilla. In modified group, the mean difference was 0.77mm and overall average error within 1mm was observed in 68.3%. There were no significant statistic differences between two groups in maxillary position. This study suggests that the CAD/CAM generated wafer provides excellent accuracy. The modified CAD/CAM wafer was only comparable to conventional design in accuracy and it cannot guarantee the superior precision. However, the modified design could be beneficial in cases with unstable condylar position or for inexperienced surgeons.